Understanding how certain proteins in pigs affect sperm survival and immune response
Official title: Siglecs in the Porcine Oviduct: Roles in the Sperm Reservoir and Sperm Immune Response
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11032023 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the pig's reproductive system help keep sperm healthy and support fertility, which could lead to better treatments for people facing fertility challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | February 26, 2023 |
| Project end | March 25, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $44,081 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD108959-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032023 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals or couples experiencing fertility issues, particularly those related to sperm function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing fertility challenges or those with conditions unrelated to sperm function may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific proteins called Siglecs in the oviduct of pigs, which is crucial for sperm survival and immune response. By examining how these proteins interact with sperm and the surrounding environment, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that help maintain a functional sperm reservoir. The research utilizes advanced biochemical techniques to analyze the presence and function of these proteins and their ligands in the reproductive tract. The findings could provide insights into reproductive biology and potential applications in fertility treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of reproductive processes, potentially leading to improved fertility treatments in both animals and humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune responses in reproductive biology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Molina, Leonardo — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Molina, Leonardo
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.